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When you light your garden, plan it the same way you'd plan the lighting in a living room: in layers. Each layer does a different job, and together they give your outdoor space depth, comfort and safety. This advice article explains each layer and how to bring them together.
SHOP OUTDOOR LIGHTING
Ambient light, the base layer
Wall lights, and ceiling lights in covered areas, give soft, general light, so your outdoor spaces feel welcoming rather than dark and empty.
READ OUR OUTDOOR WALL LIGHTS ADVICE
Task light, for getting things done
Path, step and entrance lights keep everyone safe on their feet, and focused light over the braai lets you cook with confidence. Task light goes exactly where it's needed, and no further.
READ OUR PATHWAY AND STEP LIGHTING ADVICE
Accent light, for the drama
Uplights on trees, sculptures and the front of the house create focal points. Keep accent light noticeably brighter than the ambient light around it, about three times as bright, so the feature stands out without glaring.
READ OUR LANDSCAPE AND TREE LIGHTING ADVICE
Security light, on when it's needed
Floodlights with motion sensors light up entrances and driveways the moment someone approaches.
READ OUR SECURITY LIGHTING ADVICE
Decorative light, the finishing touch
String lights add a warm, festive glow over patios, decks and dining areas.
READ OUR STRING LIGHTS ADVICE
Zone your controls
- Separate switches: Put the entrance, paths, entertainment area and garden on separate switches or timers, so each space can set its own mood.
- Automatic switching: A day/night sensor switch or a timer can run your ambient and path lights, so the garden lights itself at dusk while you put the kettle on.
- Dimmers: Add them on patios and dining areas, so you can turn the light down once everyone settles in for the evening.
Keep the colour consistent
Use the same, or similar, colour temperatures across every layer, so the whole garden looks planned rather than pieced together.
READ OUR LIGHT COLOUR ADVICE
Aim down, not up
Choose fittings that diffuse the light, or direct it down and sideways, rather than up into the sky. You'll see your garden better, your neighbours get less glare, and the stars stay visible.
Bring it together, space by space
- Front door: Welcoming wall lights, with task light on the step so nobody trips on the way in.
- Paths and steps: Task light at ground level for safe footing, with accent spotlights in the beds for a bit of drama.
- Braai area: Bright task light while you cook, then ambient and decorative light once the plates come out.
- Pool: Task light on the edges and steps for safety, with soft accent light around it to set the scene.
